CA2204941C - Method and apparatus for optimizing electrolytic production of a halogen in a water treatment system - Google Patents
Method and apparatus for optimizing electrolytic production of a halogen in a water treatment system Download PDFInfo
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- CA2204941C CA2204941C CA002204941A CA2204941A CA2204941C CA 2204941 C CA2204941 C CA 2204941C CA 002204941 A CA002204941 A CA 002204941A CA 2204941 A CA2204941 A CA 2204941A CA 2204941 C CA2204941 C CA 2204941C
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- C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
- C02—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
- C02F—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
- C02F1/00—Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage
- C02F1/46—Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage by electrochemical methods
- C02F1/461—Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage by electrochemical methods by electrolysis
- C02F1/467—Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage by electrochemical methods by electrolysis by electrochemical disinfection; by electrooxydation or by electroreduction
- C02F1/4672—Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage by electrochemical methods by electrolysis by electrochemical disinfection; by electrooxydation or by electroreduction by electrooxydation
- C02F1/4674—Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage by electrochemical methods by electrolysis by electrochemical disinfection; by electrooxydation or by electroreduction by electrooxydation with halogen or compound of halogens, e.g. chlorine, bromine
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- C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
- C02—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
- C02F—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
- C02F1/00—Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage
- C02F1/001—Processes for the treatment of water whereby the filtration technique is of importance
-
- C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
- C02—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
- C02F—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
- C02F2101/00—Nature of the contaminant
- C02F2101/30—Organic compounds
- C02F2101/36—Organic compounds containing halogen
-
- C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
- C02—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
- C02F—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
- C02F2103/00—Nature of the water, waste water, sewage or sludge to be treated
- C02F2103/42—Nature of the water, waste water, sewage or sludge to be treated from bathing facilities, e.g. swimming pools
-
- C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
- C02—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
- C02F—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
- C02F2201/00—Apparatus for treatment of water, waste water or sewage
- C02F2201/46—Apparatus for electrochemical processes
- C02F2201/461—Electrolysis apparatus
- C02F2201/46105—Details relating to the electrolytic devices
- C02F2201/4612—Controlling or monitoring
- C02F2201/46145—Fluid flow
-
- C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
- C02—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
- C02F—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
- C02F2209/00—Controlling or monitoring parameters in water treatment
- C02F2209/02—Temperature
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- C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
- C02—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
- C02F—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
- C02F2209/00—Controlling or monitoring parameters in water treatment
- C02F2209/05—Conductivity or salinity
-
- C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
- C02—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
- C02F—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
- C02F2301/00—General aspects of water treatment
- C02F2301/04—Flow arrangements
- C02F2301/043—Treatment of partial or bypass streams
-
- C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
- C02—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
- C02F—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
- C02F2301/00—General aspects of water treatment
- C02F2301/08—Multistage treatments, e.g. repetition of the same process step under different conditions
-
- C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
- C02—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
- C02F—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
- C02F2303/00—Specific treatment goals
- C02F2303/04—Disinfection
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- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10S—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10S210/00—Liquid purification or separation
- Y10S210/902—Materials removed
- Y10S210/908—Organic
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- Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
- Chemical Kinetics & Catalysis (AREA)
- Electrochemistry (AREA)
- General Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
- Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
- Hydrology & Water Resources (AREA)
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Environmental & Geological Engineering (AREA)
- Water Supply & Treatment (AREA)
- Organic Chemistry (AREA)
- Water Treatment By Electricity Or Magnetism (AREA)
- Treatment Of Water By Oxidation Or Reduction (AREA)
Abstract
Method and apparatus for optimizing the electrolytic production of a halogen in a water treatment system having a halogen salt dissolved therein. The flow rate to the electrolytic cell is maintained below a predetermined maximum beyond which the remaining flow is diverted from the cell. The flow going to the cell is monitored for flow rate, water temperature and conductivity and the operation of the electrolytic cell is adjusted in response.
Description
METHOD A_ND APpARATTT~ FOR OPTIMT~TNr FLECTROLYTTC PRODL1~'TT(~N OF A H_AL~rFN
TN A WATER TREATMENT SYSTEM
BACKGROUND OF THE NvFNTT~N
?. Field of the Inventinn~_ The present invention relates generally to the electrolytic generation of a halogen, such as chlorine or bromine, for treating algae and bacteria within a water source, such as a swimming pool. More particularly, the present invention relates to an improved system of controlling the production of halogen through control of flow rate to the electrolytic cell and through control over the operation of the electrolytic cell in response to measured parameters in a flow stream to the cell.
?. Descrit?t,'_nn of the Prior Art' The use of halogens, particularly chlorine, to treat water systems such as swimming pools for algae and bacteria has been well known. A common procedure involving the manual introduction of chemicals into the swimming pool, although seemingly simple, has associated problems involving labor and safety issues. This method requires that the water be tested frequently to determine when the chemicals need to be added or if the amount being used is proper. The manual introduction of the chemicals also means that a certain amount of time is required before sufficient dispersion will take place, which results in areas of higher concentrations of chemicals in certain portions of the pool and discomfort for swimmers entering these areas. These methods also require the transportation, storage and handling of often dangerous materials presenting issues of safety and liability for proper care.
Other techniques involve the electrolysis of a brine solution to generate a gaseous form of halogen, such as chlorine gas, which is then collected at the top of a chamber for introduction into the pool water system as disclosed in U.S.
Patent No. 4,693,806 to Tucker and U.S. Patent No. 5,037,519 to Wiscombe. While these techniques may have reduced the amount of labor involved by eliminating the manual addition of chemicals into the pool and the frequent testing of the water to determine the proper application, concerns over safety remain. These methods require the use of a relatively complicated structure involving a barrier between the anode and cathode sides of the device in order to contain the brine, and to separate the gases which are produced, chlorine and hydrogen in the case of a chlorinator. A safety issue concerns the building up of excess gases in such a device, hydrogen being a highly explosive gas and chlorine gas being poisonous. The use of these systems therefore requires extra care to prevent release or explosion of such gases. These systems are also generally not without labor requirements. The use of the brine solution generally requires that the brine must periodically be replenished as it is depleted. Furthermore, water must be periodically added to maintain the brine in solution.
A further series of techniques involves the electrolytic generation of a halogen, such as chlorine or bromine, by flowing at least a portion of circulating pool water to which a relatively small amount of halogen salt has been added, through the cell to convert the halogen salt into halogen directly in the flow stream. In a chlorinator, for example, dissolved sodium chloride is converted into sodium hypochlorite, as is disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 4,100,052 to Stillman.
Stillman discloses a system which includes a controller for the electrolytic cell, the controller also being connected to the main circulating pump for the pool system. The control system of Stillman is built on a timing system wherein the pump has a cycle of operation and the cell has a shorter cycle contained within the cycle of the pump. An example given is a 12 hour on, 12 hour off cycle for the pump and a 12 minute on, 3 minute off cycle for the cell within the 12 hour on time of the pump.
The control systems of the prior art leave room for improvement in obtaining optimum halogen production for a given cell in a given system. A system that merely controls on/off time of the cell, for example, is not responsive to fluctuations in the flow rate which the circulating pump is presenting to the production cell. These fluctuations in flow rate could result, for example, from obstructions trapped in the filter of the system. Further, it is known in the art, that the production of halogen from an aqueous solution containing a dissolved halogen salt will vary depending on the temperature of the solution as well as the concentration of the halogen salt in the solution.
TN A WATER TREATMENT SYSTEM
BACKGROUND OF THE NvFNTT~N
?. Field of the Inventinn~_ The present invention relates generally to the electrolytic generation of a halogen, such as chlorine or bromine, for treating algae and bacteria within a water source, such as a swimming pool. More particularly, the present invention relates to an improved system of controlling the production of halogen through control of flow rate to the electrolytic cell and through control over the operation of the electrolytic cell in response to measured parameters in a flow stream to the cell.
?. Descrit?t,'_nn of the Prior Art' The use of halogens, particularly chlorine, to treat water systems such as swimming pools for algae and bacteria has been well known. A common procedure involving the manual introduction of chemicals into the swimming pool, although seemingly simple, has associated problems involving labor and safety issues. This method requires that the water be tested frequently to determine when the chemicals need to be added or if the amount being used is proper. The manual introduction of the chemicals also means that a certain amount of time is required before sufficient dispersion will take place, which results in areas of higher concentrations of chemicals in certain portions of the pool and discomfort for swimmers entering these areas. These methods also require the transportation, storage and handling of often dangerous materials presenting issues of safety and liability for proper care.
Other techniques involve the electrolysis of a brine solution to generate a gaseous form of halogen, such as chlorine gas, which is then collected at the top of a chamber for introduction into the pool water system as disclosed in U.S.
Patent No. 4,693,806 to Tucker and U.S. Patent No. 5,037,519 to Wiscombe. While these techniques may have reduced the amount of labor involved by eliminating the manual addition of chemicals into the pool and the frequent testing of the water to determine the proper application, concerns over safety remain. These methods require the use of a relatively complicated structure involving a barrier between the anode and cathode sides of the device in order to contain the brine, and to separate the gases which are produced, chlorine and hydrogen in the case of a chlorinator. A safety issue concerns the building up of excess gases in such a device, hydrogen being a highly explosive gas and chlorine gas being poisonous. The use of these systems therefore requires extra care to prevent release or explosion of such gases. These systems are also generally not without labor requirements. The use of the brine solution generally requires that the brine must periodically be replenished as it is depleted. Furthermore, water must be periodically added to maintain the brine in solution.
A further series of techniques involves the electrolytic generation of a halogen, such as chlorine or bromine, by flowing at least a portion of circulating pool water to which a relatively small amount of halogen salt has been added, through the cell to convert the halogen salt into halogen directly in the flow stream. In a chlorinator, for example, dissolved sodium chloride is converted into sodium hypochlorite, as is disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 4,100,052 to Stillman.
Stillman discloses a system which includes a controller for the electrolytic cell, the controller also being connected to the main circulating pump for the pool system. The control system of Stillman is built on a timing system wherein the pump has a cycle of operation and the cell has a shorter cycle contained within the cycle of the pump. An example given is a 12 hour on, 12 hour off cycle for the pump and a 12 minute on, 3 minute off cycle for the cell within the 12 hour on time of the pump.
The control systems of the prior art leave room for improvement in obtaining optimum halogen production for a given cell in a given system. A system that merely controls on/off time of the cell, for example, is not responsive to fluctuations in the flow rate which the circulating pump is presenting to the production cell. These fluctuations in flow rate could result, for example, from obstructions trapped in the filter of the system. Further, it is known in the art, that the production of halogen from an aqueous solution containing a dissolved halogen salt will vary depending on the temperature of the solution as well as the concentration of the halogen salt in the solution.
SiIMMARY OF THE INVENTION
According to the present invention there is provided an apparatus for treating a water source, the apparatus including a pipeline having flow characteristics imparting a variable flow rate to circulating water from a water source containing dissolved halogen salt, the pipeline being branched and including a flow rate controller to form a varying flow rate portion and a treatment flow portion having an ideal flow rate predetermined to optimize electrical production of a halogen independent of the varying flow rate portion, and a halogen producer coupled for electrically creating a halogen from dissolved halogen salt in the treatment flow portion at the ideal flow rate.
According to the present invention the apparatus used in a water treatment system includes (a) means for producing a halogen from a flow of an aqueous solution having a halogen salt content, (b) means operably connected to the halogen production means for controlling the operation of the means for producing, and (c) means operably connected to the production means for diverting an amount of aqueous solution from the production means and thereby controlling the flow to the production means to a predetermined maximum rate.
According to the present invention there is also provided a method for treating a water source including the steps of forming a pressurized flow of water containing a dissolved halogen salt from a water source, the pressurized flow having a varying flow rate as a source for treatment thereof, branching the pressurized flow to form a varying flow rate portion to establish a treatment flow having an ideal flow rate predetermined to optimize an electric production of a halogen regardless of the varying flow of the pressurized flow of water, producing a halogen in the treatment flow by electrically creating a chemical reaction between the dissolved salt and the water, and returning the treatment flow with the halogen produced therein and the varying flow rate portion back to the water source for disinfection of organic compounds therein.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Fig. 1 is a layout showing a typical swimming pool treatment system utilizing the present invention;
4a Fig. 2 is a sectional view of the halogen production portion of the system of Fig. l:
Fig. 3 is a layout showing a multiple cell manifold utilizing the present invention; and Fig. 4 is a layout showing multiple cell manifolds connected in parallel.
DETAINED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
Referring to Figure 1, a schematic of a water treatment system using the present invention is shown. The water source 10, a swimming pool in the case of the embodiment shown, has a relatively small amount of sodium chloride added. It has been found, for example, that a single addition of approximately 400 pounds of sodium chloride to a pool containing approximately 20,000 gallons of water, will serve as the source for the production of chlorine for an entire season because the chlorine is reconverted to sodium chloride in the water treatment cycle, as will be discussed below. As an option, the same system can be used to convert a salt of a different halogen, such as sodium bromide, into bromine which will be used to treat the water source. The salted water is circulated via pipeline 12 by pump 14. The water is then passed through filter 16 to remove debris which may be present in the system. Pump 14 and filter 16 represent typical pool equipment commonly found in swimming pool systems. It should be noted that the features of the present invention would be applicable to larger scale systems using appropriately sized components. Downstream of the filter, the piping system divides into piping sections 18 and 20. Contained within piping section 20 is a spring check valve 22 which serves to direct the pumped fluid into piping section 18 for up to a predetermined maximum flow rate of the pumped water and salt.
After the predetermined rate of flow is reached, the spring check valve serves to divert that portion of the flow which exceeds the maximum rate desired in piping section 18, which for the present embodiment is 20 gallons per minute, through piping section 20.
This arrangement allows for optimizing the production of chlorine by providing for the ideal amount of flow into piping section 18 regardless of fluctuation in the flow rate existing in piping section 12. Such fluctuations in flow rate could result, for example, from variation in the output of pump 14, or variations in the amount of flow through the filter 16 caused by trapped debris. Contained within piping section 18 is sensor 32 for checking the flow of salted water for parameters including flow rate, water temperature and conductivity, the conductivity measurement varying primarily in response to changes in the salt content of the flow stream. Sensor 32 communicates with a controller unit 38 via line 40. Downstream of sensor 32 and within piping section 18 is the production cell 42 which electrolytically converts the sodium chloride contained within the water into chlorine, in the form of sodium hypochlorite, according to the following equation.
NaCl + H20 ~e- NaOCl + HZ
According to the present invention there is provided an apparatus for treating a water source, the apparatus including a pipeline having flow characteristics imparting a variable flow rate to circulating water from a water source containing dissolved halogen salt, the pipeline being branched and including a flow rate controller to form a varying flow rate portion and a treatment flow portion having an ideal flow rate predetermined to optimize electrical production of a halogen independent of the varying flow rate portion, and a halogen producer coupled for electrically creating a halogen from dissolved halogen salt in the treatment flow portion at the ideal flow rate.
According to the present invention the apparatus used in a water treatment system includes (a) means for producing a halogen from a flow of an aqueous solution having a halogen salt content, (b) means operably connected to the halogen production means for controlling the operation of the means for producing, and (c) means operably connected to the production means for diverting an amount of aqueous solution from the production means and thereby controlling the flow to the production means to a predetermined maximum rate.
According to the present invention there is also provided a method for treating a water source including the steps of forming a pressurized flow of water containing a dissolved halogen salt from a water source, the pressurized flow having a varying flow rate as a source for treatment thereof, branching the pressurized flow to form a varying flow rate portion to establish a treatment flow having an ideal flow rate predetermined to optimize an electric production of a halogen regardless of the varying flow of the pressurized flow of water, producing a halogen in the treatment flow by electrically creating a chemical reaction between the dissolved salt and the water, and returning the treatment flow with the halogen produced therein and the varying flow rate portion back to the water source for disinfection of organic compounds therein.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Fig. 1 is a layout showing a typical swimming pool treatment system utilizing the present invention;
4a Fig. 2 is a sectional view of the halogen production portion of the system of Fig. l:
Fig. 3 is a layout showing a multiple cell manifold utilizing the present invention; and Fig. 4 is a layout showing multiple cell manifolds connected in parallel.
DETAINED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
Referring to Figure 1, a schematic of a water treatment system using the present invention is shown. The water source 10, a swimming pool in the case of the embodiment shown, has a relatively small amount of sodium chloride added. It has been found, for example, that a single addition of approximately 400 pounds of sodium chloride to a pool containing approximately 20,000 gallons of water, will serve as the source for the production of chlorine for an entire season because the chlorine is reconverted to sodium chloride in the water treatment cycle, as will be discussed below. As an option, the same system can be used to convert a salt of a different halogen, such as sodium bromide, into bromine which will be used to treat the water source. The salted water is circulated via pipeline 12 by pump 14. The water is then passed through filter 16 to remove debris which may be present in the system. Pump 14 and filter 16 represent typical pool equipment commonly found in swimming pool systems. It should be noted that the features of the present invention would be applicable to larger scale systems using appropriately sized components. Downstream of the filter, the piping system divides into piping sections 18 and 20. Contained within piping section 20 is a spring check valve 22 which serves to direct the pumped fluid into piping section 18 for up to a predetermined maximum flow rate of the pumped water and salt.
After the predetermined rate of flow is reached, the spring check valve serves to divert that portion of the flow which exceeds the maximum rate desired in piping section 18, which for the present embodiment is 20 gallons per minute, through piping section 20.
This arrangement allows for optimizing the production of chlorine by providing for the ideal amount of flow into piping section 18 regardless of fluctuation in the flow rate existing in piping section 12. Such fluctuations in flow rate could result, for example, from variation in the output of pump 14, or variations in the amount of flow through the filter 16 caused by trapped debris. Contained within piping section 18 is sensor 32 for checking the flow of salted water for parameters including flow rate, water temperature and conductivity, the conductivity measurement varying primarily in response to changes in the salt content of the flow stream. Sensor 32 communicates with a controller unit 38 via line 40. Downstream of sensor 32 and within piping section 18 is the production cell 42 which electrolytically converts the sodium chloride contained within the water into chlorine, in the form of sodium hypochlorite, according to the following equation.
NaCl + H20 ~e- NaOCl + HZ
Electrolytic cells, such as cell 42 incorporated in the present invention, are available commercially as separate components by Autopilot Systems, Inc., of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, as Lectrantor° Models SRT-200-360, 600 or 840.
Although the pool system contains the above mentioned filter 16, the manifold also includes an in-line strainer 21 for protecting the cell 42 from debris that might bypass the main filter of the system. The in-line strainer 21 (Figure 2) is most preferably located in a convenient location, such as in the region of the connecting union 25 contained in piping section 18, thereby facilitating periodic cleaning of the strainer.
The information regarding flow rate, temperature and conductivity which is monitored by sensor 32 is sent to controller 38 via line 40. This information is then used by the controller to control the operation of cell 42 via line 48. The controller ensures that a predetermined minimum flow rate is reached before powering the cell in order to protect the cell.
The controller also monitors the flow rate during the operation of the cell, and will power down the cell if the flow rate drops below the required minimum. In a similar fashion, the controller will use the information regarding water temperature to keep the cell from operating if the water temperature is below a predetermined value. Below approximately 57°F, the chemical process involving the conversion of sodium chloride into sodium hypochlorite is suppressed to such an extent that powering of the cell would be ineffective. The controller uses the conductivity measurement to provide an indication in the event there is insufficient salt content present for the efficient production of chlorine by the electrolytic cell.
As seen in the figures, the combination which includes sensor 32, controller 38, lines 40 and 48, electrolytic cell 42, spring valve 22, in-line strainer 21, and piping sections 18 and 20 forms a unit which may be preassembled for easy installation into an existing or new pool system.
The chlorinated water exiting from cell 42 flows into piping section 48 and is prevented from flowing into piping section 20 by valve 22. The chlorinated water is then recirculated back into the water source 10 where the sodium hypochlorite acts on organic compounds such as algae and bacteria. The action of the sodium hypochlorite on the organic products within the water source reconverts the sodium hypochlorite back into sodium chloride according to the following equation.
C(organic compounds) + 2NaOC1 ~ COZ + 2NaC1 The system thus represents a cycle, wherein the same salt which was added at the beginning of the season is used repeatedly to form sodium hypochlorite.
Turning to Figure 2, the construction of the chlorine production portion of the water treatment system is shown in greater detail. The spring check valve 22 has an outer housing 23 which mates with piping section 20. The valve mechanism includes a piston head portion 24 having an outer periphery which, under flow rates less than the 20 gallon per minute design rate, is seated against a projecting portion of the housing 23, thereby preventing flow past the valve and causing all flow to be diverted into piping section 18. Spring 26 is designed to provide a compressive force sufficient to maintain pressure between the piston head 24 and the projecting portion of housing 23 up to the design flow rate, at which point that portion of flow beyond the design flow rate is allowed to pass into piping section 20.
The in-line strainer 21, as seen in Figure 2, is housed within a connecting union 25. The strainer 21 includes a basket portion 21A and has an annular disc 21B to which the basket 21A
is attached. The annular disc 21B supports the basket in the flow stream through contact of the disc with the ends of sleeves 25A
and 25C. A nut member 25B has a flanged portion for interfitting with a flange of sleeve 25A and for placing compression on the union 25 through engagement of threads on nut 25B with external threads on sleeve 25C.
The location of the union 25 directly opposite pipe juncture 45 in parallelly arranged pipe branches of the manifold, as seen in Figure 2, facilitates access to the in-line strainer 21. By unthreading the nut 25B, the entire manifold assembly may be pivoted about juncture 45, thereby providing access for cleaning or replacement of strainer 21.
Sensor 32 is shown to have a housing 34 which contains probes 36 which extend into the flow area of piping section 18 such that the information regarding flow rate, water temperature and conductivity may be obtained and sent to the controller 38 via line 40.
Electrolytic cell 42 has a housing 44, which should be made of a material that is nonconducting and chemically resistant to the chemicals being processed. Polyethylene would be a suitable choice of material for the housing for the chlorine production of the current embodiment. The cell contains a set of closely spaced parallel plates 46 which serve as the electrodes in the electrolytic process. The plates 46 transmit an ion potential, as is disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 4,100,052, and are constructed from conductive material such as aluminum or especially titanium.
Turning to Figures 3 and 4, manifold arrangements are shown having multiple cells for application in water systems where chlorine demand would exceed the capabilities of one cell having a standard size. As opposed to incorporating a chlorinator cell of a larger size in order to obtain a greater amount of chlorine production, it is more economical to utilize multiple cells of a standard size. Figure 3 shows a manifold system having four cells 42 in series within piping section 18 downstream of sensor 32. As before, the flow rate to the cells is controlled through the use of spring check valve 22 in piping section 20. The multiple cell manifold of Figure 3 also includes as shown only in Figure 2 an in-line strainer 21 for protecting the electrolytic cells from debris which may bypass the main filter 16 upstream of the check valve 22. The control system for the manifold is arranged as follows. The information regarding the flow parameters in piping section 18 is sent to a master controller 38A which is electrically connected to one of the cells 42 for control over the operation of the cell as was previously discussed. Master controller 38A is also electrically interfaced to slave controllers 38B, each of which is electrically connected to one of the remaining cells 42 for control over that cell. Thus, each of the cells 42 has an associated controller, but only the master controller 38A will establish the operating condition to be applied by all of the controllers.
Figure 4 displays a dual manifold system, having parallel arranged manifolds each of which is constructed according to the arrangement of Figure 3. Each of the parallel manifolds contains four cells arranged in series and four associated controllers, one of which functions as the master controller 38A in communication with sensor 32 and the remainder functioning as the slave controllers 38B.
While the present invention has been described in connection with the preferred embodiments of the various figures, it is to be understood that other similar embodiments may be used or modifications and additions may be made to the described embodiment for performing the same function of the present invention without deviating therefrom. Therefore, the present invention should not be limited to any single embodiment, but rather construed in breadth and scope in accordance with the recitation of the appended claims.
Although the pool system contains the above mentioned filter 16, the manifold also includes an in-line strainer 21 for protecting the cell 42 from debris that might bypass the main filter of the system. The in-line strainer 21 (Figure 2) is most preferably located in a convenient location, such as in the region of the connecting union 25 contained in piping section 18, thereby facilitating periodic cleaning of the strainer.
The information regarding flow rate, temperature and conductivity which is monitored by sensor 32 is sent to controller 38 via line 40. This information is then used by the controller to control the operation of cell 42 via line 48. The controller ensures that a predetermined minimum flow rate is reached before powering the cell in order to protect the cell.
The controller also monitors the flow rate during the operation of the cell, and will power down the cell if the flow rate drops below the required minimum. In a similar fashion, the controller will use the information regarding water temperature to keep the cell from operating if the water temperature is below a predetermined value. Below approximately 57°F, the chemical process involving the conversion of sodium chloride into sodium hypochlorite is suppressed to such an extent that powering of the cell would be ineffective. The controller uses the conductivity measurement to provide an indication in the event there is insufficient salt content present for the efficient production of chlorine by the electrolytic cell.
As seen in the figures, the combination which includes sensor 32, controller 38, lines 40 and 48, electrolytic cell 42, spring valve 22, in-line strainer 21, and piping sections 18 and 20 forms a unit which may be preassembled for easy installation into an existing or new pool system.
The chlorinated water exiting from cell 42 flows into piping section 48 and is prevented from flowing into piping section 20 by valve 22. The chlorinated water is then recirculated back into the water source 10 where the sodium hypochlorite acts on organic compounds such as algae and bacteria. The action of the sodium hypochlorite on the organic products within the water source reconverts the sodium hypochlorite back into sodium chloride according to the following equation.
C(organic compounds) + 2NaOC1 ~ COZ + 2NaC1 The system thus represents a cycle, wherein the same salt which was added at the beginning of the season is used repeatedly to form sodium hypochlorite.
Turning to Figure 2, the construction of the chlorine production portion of the water treatment system is shown in greater detail. The spring check valve 22 has an outer housing 23 which mates with piping section 20. The valve mechanism includes a piston head portion 24 having an outer periphery which, under flow rates less than the 20 gallon per minute design rate, is seated against a projecting portion of the housing 23, thereby preventing flow past the valve and causing all flow to be diverted into piping section 18. Spring 26 is designed to provide a compressive force sufficient to maintain pressure between the piston head 24 and the projecting portion of housing 23 up to the design flow rate, at which point that portion of flow beyond the design flow rate is allowed to pass into piping section 20.
The in-line strainer 21, as seen in Figure 2, is housed within a connecting union 25. The strainer 21 includes a basket portion 21A and has an annular disc 21B to which the basket 21A
is attached. The annular disc 21B supports the basket in the flow stream through contact of the disc with the ends of sleeves 25A
and 25C. A nut member 25B has a flanged portion for interfitting with a flange of sleeve 25A and for placing compression on the union 25 through engagement of threads on nut 25B with external threads on sleeve 25C.
The location of the union 25 directly opposite pipe juncture 45 in parallelly arranged pipe branches of the manifold, as seen in Figure 2, facilitates access to the in-line strainer 21. By unthreading the nut 25B, the entire manifold assembly may be pivoted about juncture 45, thereby providing access for cleaning or replacement of strainer 21.
Sensor 32 is shown to have a housing 34 which contains probes 36 which extend into the flow area of piping section 18 such that the information regarding flow rate, water temperature and conductivity may be obtained and sent to the controller 38 via line 40.
Electrolytic cell 42 has a housing 44, which should be made of a material that is nonconducting and chemically resistant to the chemicals being processed. Polyethylene would be a suitable choice of material for the housing for the chlorine production of the current embodiment. The cell contains a set of closely spaced parallel plates 46 which serve as the electrodes in the electrolytic process. The plates 46 transmit an ion potential, as is disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 4,100,052, and are constructed from conductive material such as aluminum or especially titanium.
Turning to Figures 3 and 4, manifold arrangements are shown having multiple cells for application in water systems where chlorine demand would exceed the capabilities of one cell having a standard size. As opposed to incorporating a chlorinator cell of a larger size in order to obtain a greater amount of chlorine production, it is more economical to utilize multiple cells of a standard size. Figure 3 shows a manifold system having four cells 42 in series within piping section 18 downstream of sensor 32. As before, the flow rate to the cells is controlled through the use of spring check valve 22 in piping section 20. The multiple cell manifold of Figure 3 also includes as shown only in Figure 2 an in-line strainer 21 for protecting the electrolytic cells from debris which may bypass the main filter 16 upstream of the check valve 22. The control system for the manifold is arranged as follows. The information regarding the flow parameters in piping section 18 is sent to a master controller 38A which is electrically connected to one of the cells 42 for control over the operation of the cell as was previously discussed. Master controller 38A is also electrically interfaced to slave controllers 38B, each of which is electrically connected to one of the remaining cells 42 for control over that cell. Thus, each of the cells 42 has an associated controller, but only the master controller 38A will establish the operating condition to be applied by all of the controllers.
Figure 4 displays a dual manifold system, having parallel arranged manifolds each of which is constructed according to the arrangement of Figure 3. Each of the parallel manifolds contains four cells arranged in series and four associated controllers, one of which functions as the master controller 38A in communication with sensor 32 and the remainder functioning as the slave controllers 38B.
While the present invention has been described in connection with the preferred embodiments of the various figures, it is to be understood that other similar embodiments may be used or modifications and additions may be made to the described embodiment for performing the same function of the present invention without deviating therefrom. Therefore, the present invention should not be limited to any single embodiment, but rather construed in breadth and scope in accordance with the recitation of the appended claims.
Claims (32)
1. An apparatus for treating a water source, the apparatus including:
a pipeline having a flow characteristic imparting a variable flow rate to circulating water from a water source containing dissolved halogen salt, said pipeline being branched and including a flow rate controller to form a varying flow rate portion and a treatment flow portion having an ideal flow rate predetermined to optimize electrical production of a halogen independent of said varying flow rate portion; and a halogen producer coupled for electrically creating a halogen from dissolved halogen salt in the treatment flow portion at said ideal flow rate.
a pipeline having a flow characteristic imparting a variable flow rate to circulating water from a water source containing dissolved halogen salt, said pipeline being branched and including a flow rate controller to form a varying flow rate portion and a treatment flow portion having an ideal flow rate predetermined to optimize electrical production of a halogen independent of said varying flow rate portion; and a halogen producer coupled for electrically creating a halogen from dissolved halogen salt in the treatment flow portion at said ideal flow rate.
2. The apparatus according to claim 1 wherein said halogen producer includes an electrolytic cell utilizing electric current for producing a halogen.
3. The apparatus according to claim 1 wherein said pipeline includes a pump for circulating water from said water source.
4. The apparatus according to claim 3 wherein said pipeline includes a member for entrapping solid debris in said circulating water.
5. The apparatus according to claim 4 wherein said member comprises a strainer.
6. The apparatus according to claim 4 wherein said member comprises a filter.
7. The apparatus according to claim 1 wherein said flow rate controller includes a valve.
8. The apparatus according to claim 7 wherein said valve is coupled in said varying flow rate portion.
9. The apparatus according to claim 7 wherein said valve is a spring operated check valve.
10. The apparatus according to claim 1 further including a sensor responsive to the flow of circulating water by said pipeline for monitoring at least one of a set of parameters including flow rate, water temperature and conductivity.
11. The apparatus according to claim 10 further including a halogen producer controller responsive to said at least one parameter for preventing operation of said halogen producer when the monitored parameter precludes a production of a halogen at a preselected minimum value.
12. The apparatus according to claim 1 wherein said halogen producer includes a plurality of electrolytic cells spaced along said treatment flow portion for electrically treating the halogen salt at said ideal flow rate.
13. The apparatus according to claim 12 further including a sensor responsive to the flow of circulating water by said pipeline for monitoring at least one of a set of parameters
14 including flow rate, water temperature and conductivity.
14. The apparatus according to claim 13 further including a halogen producer controller responsive to said at least one parameter for preventing operation of said halogen producer when the monitored parameter precludes a production of a halogen at a preselected minimum value.
14. The apparatus according to claim 13 further including a halogen producer controller responsive to said at least one parameter for preventing operation of said halogen producer when the monitored parameter precludes a production of a halogen at a preselected minimum value.
15. The apparatus according to claim 1 wherein said treatment flow portion is divided into at least two parallel flow portions and wherein each of the parallel flow portions includes at least one electrolytic cell spaced along the treatment flow portion for electrically creating a halogen salt.
16. The apparatus according to claim 15 further including at least one sensor responsive to the flow of circulating water by said pipeline for monitoring at least one of a set of parameters including flow rate, water temperature and conductivity.
17. The apparatus according to claim 16 further including a halogen producer controller responsive to said at least one parameter for preventing operation of said halogen producer when the monitored parameter precludes a production of a halogen at a preselected minimum value.
18. The apparatus according to claim 16 wherein said at least one sensor includes a sensor responsive to the flow of circulating water in each of the parallel flow portions of said treatment flow portion.
19. The apparatus according to claim 18 further including a plurality of halogen producer controllers each of which is responsive to said at least one parameter of one of said sensors for preventing operation of said halogen producer when the monitored parameter precludes a production of a halogen at a preselected minimum value.
20. The apparatus according to claim 1 wherein said halogen producer includes a plurality of halogen producing electrolytic cells along said treatment flow portion for electrically treating the halogen at said ideal flow rate.
21. In a water treatment system, an apparatus including:
(a) means for producing a halogen from a flow of an aqueous solution having a halogen salt content;
(b) means operably connected to said halogen production means for controlling the operation of said means for producing; and (c) means operably connected to said production means for diverting an amount of aqueous solution from said production means and thereby controlling said flow to said production means to a predetermined maximum rate.
(a) means for producing a halogen from a flow of an aqueous solution having a halogen salt content;
(b) means operably connected to said halogen production means for controlling the operation of said means for producing; and (c) means operably connected to said production means for diverting an amount of aqueous solution from said production means and thereby controlling said flow to said production means to a predetermined maximum rate.
22. A method for treating a water source including the steps of:
forming a pressurized flow of water containing a dissolved halogen salt from a water source, said pressurized flow having a varying flow rate as a source for treatment thereof;
branching said pressurized flow to form a varying flow rate portion to establish a treatment flow having an ideal flow rate predetermined to optimize an electric production of a halogen regardless of the varying flow of the pressurized flow of water;
producing a halogen in said treatment flow by electrically creating a chemical reaction between said dissolved salt and said water; and returning the treatment flow with said halogen produced therein and said varying flow rate portion back to said water source for disinfection of organic compounds therein.
forming a pressurized flow of water containing a dissolved halogen salt from a water source, said pressurized flow having a varying flow rate as a source for treatment thereof;
branching said pressurized flow to form a varying flow rate portion to establish a treatment flow having an ideal flow rate predetermined to optimize an electric production of a halogen regardless of the varying flow of the pressurized flow of water;
producing a halogen in said treatment flow by electrically creating a chemical reaction between said dissolved salt and said water; and returning the treatment flow with said halogen produced therein and said varying flow rate portion back to said water source for disinfection of organic compounds therein.
23. The method according to claim 22 wherein said step of producing a halogen includes monitoring parameters of the treatment flow.
24. The method according to claim 23 wherein the monitored parameters of the treatment flow are used to turn ON and OFF electrical power used to electrically create the chemical reaction.
25. The method according to claim 24 wherein the monitored parameters include flow rate.
26. The method according to claim 23 wherein the monitored parameters include temperature.
27. The method according to claim 23 wherein the monitored parameters include conductivity measurement to provide an indication of the halogen salt content in the treatment flow.
28. The method according to claim 22 wherein the varying flow rate portion is formed by a control valve responsive to flow pressure.
29. The method according to claim 22 including the step of straining said treatment flow after said step of branching said pressurized flow.
30. The method according 22 wherein said chemical reaction is through electrolysis.
31. The method according to claim 22 wherein said step of producing a halogen includes creating said chemical reaction at a plurality of spaced apart sites along said treatment flow.
32. The method according to claim 31 including the further step of individually controlling the chemical reaction at each of the plurality of spaced apart sites in response to a master controlling signal, and using monitored parameters including flow rate, water temperature, and electrical conductivity to generate the master controlling signal.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US65168696A | 1996-05-21 | 1996-05-21 | |
| US651,686 | 1996-05-21 |
Publications (2)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2204941A1 CA2204941A1 (en) | 1997-11-21 |
| CA2204941C true CA2204941C (en) | 2002-04-02 |
Family
ID=24613815
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002204941A Expired - Fee Related CA2204941C (en) | 1996-05-21 | 1997-05-09 | Method and apparatus for optimizing electrolytic production of a halogen in a water treatment system |
Country Status (2)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| US (1) | US5993669A (en) |
| CA (1) | CA2204941C (en) |
Families Citing this family (27)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FR2760483A1 (en) * | 1997-03-10 | 1998-09-11 | Philippe Billaud | ELECTRONIC APPARATUS FOR AUTOMATIC FILTRATION MANAGEMENT BASED ON TEMPERATURE PARAMETERS, FILTRATION TIME |
| FR2803841B1 (en) * | 2000-01-18 | 2002-02-22 | Inst Francais Du Petrole | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR DISINFECTING AND CONTROLLING LEGIONELLOSIS IN SANITARY HOT WATER SUPPLY EQUIPMENT |
| AU2001281144A1 (en) * | 2000-08-04 | 2002-02-18 | H2O Technologies, Limited | Method and apparatus for water treatment system for livestock and poultry use |
| US20020168418A1 (en) * | 2000-08-04 | 2002-11-14 | H20 Technologies, Ltd. | Method and apparatus for treating water for use in improving the intestinal flora of livestock and poultry |
| US7238278B2 (en) * | 2001-10-26 | 2007-07-03 | Zodiac Pool Care, Inc. | Apparatus for purifying water |
| US6761827B2 (en) | 2001-10-26 | 2004-07-13 | Zodiac Pool Care, Inc. | Method and apparatus for purifying water |
| US6982040B2 (en) * | 2003-04-16 | 2006-01-03 | Zodiac Pool Care, Inc. | Method and apparatus for purifying water |
| US7014753B2 (en) * | 2003-07-21 | 2006-03-21 | Smartpool Inc. | Salt chlorine generator |
| US20100250449A1 (en) * | 2004-10-26 | 2010-09-30 | Kevin Doyle | Inline chlorinator with integral control package, heat dissipation and warranty information accumulator |
| EP1819410B1 (en) * | 2004-10-26 | 2019-03-13 | Pentair Water Pool and Spa, Inc. | Inline chlorinator with integral control package and heat dissipation |
| US7211176B2 (en) * | 2004-11-02 | 2007-05-01 | Zodiac Pool Care, Inc. | Replaceable chlorinator electrode assembly |
| US8147673B2 (en) * | 2005-01-18 | 2012-04-03 | Severn Trent De Nora, Llc | System and process for treatment and de-halogenation of ballast water |
| DE102005004063A1 (en) * | 2005-01-21 | 2006-07-27 | Alfred Kärcher Gmbh & Co. Kg | Method and apparatus for producing an alkali metal hypochlorite solution |
| US7993600B2 (en) | 2006-03-03 | 2011-08-09 | KBK Technologies Inc. | Salt dispensing system |
| US7954508B2 (en) | 2006-03-03 | 2011-06-07 | KBK Technologies, Inc. | Electronically controlled valve actuator in a plumbed water line within a water conditioning management system |
| WO2009077213A1 (en) * | 2007-12-19 | 2009-06-25 | Infracor Gmbh | Method for the treatment of water with chorine dioxide |
| DE102008055016A1 (en) | 2008-12-19 | 2010-07-01 | Infracor Gmbh | Process for treating water and aqueous systems in pipelines with chlorine dioxide |
| US10006214B2 (en) | 2009-01-28 | 2018-06-26 | Pentair Water Pool And Spa, Inc. | pH balancing dispenser and system with piercing opener |
| US9416034B2 (en) * | 2009-01-28 | 2016-08-16 | Pentair Water Pool And Spa, Inc. | pH balancing system |
| US8277621B2 (en) * | 2009-08-31 | 2012-10-02 | Time Asia International Creation Limited | Halogen generator for above ground pools |
| AU2012290292B2 (en) | 2011-07-29 | 2017-08-17 | Hayward Industries, Inc. | Chlorinators and replaceable cell cartridges therefor |
| WO2013019750A1 (en) | 2011-07-29 | 2013-02-07 | Hayward Industries, Inc. | Systems and methods for controlling chlorinators |
| US9938741B1 (en) | 2013-09-16 | 2018-04-10 | Gsg Holdings, Inc. | System for operating ancillary equipment with multi-speed pool pumps |
| CN110177763A (en) * | 2017-01-13 | 2019-08-27 | 松下知识产权经营株式会社 | Water treatment facilities and water treatment system |
| EP3602024A4 (en) | 2017-03-21 | 2020-11-18 | Hayward Industries, Inc. | Systems and methods for sanitizing pool and spa water |
| CN111094193A (en) * | 2017-08-25 | 2020-05-01 | 松下知识产权经营株式会社 | Water treatment device and water treatment system |
| US11795717B2 (en) * | 2020-04-20 | 2023-10-24 | Rheem Manufacturing Company | Fluid chemistry manifolds and systems |
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| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GB311218A (en) * | 1928-02-06 | 1929-05-06 | United Water Softeners Ltd | Improvements relating to the electrolytic production of sterilising agents, germicides and the like, and to processes of applying such agents |
| US2873263A (en) * | 1954-08-06 | 1959-02-10 | H D Justi & Son Inc | Polymerization of unsaturated compounds in the presence of bactericidal phenates of phenols and thiophenols |
| US4100052A (en) * | 1976-11-11 | 1978-07-11 | Diamond Shamrock Corporation | Electrolytic generation of halogen biocides |
| US4472256A (en) * | 1983-07-13 | 1984-09-18 | Hilbig Herbert H | Electrolytic pool chlorinator |
| US4584106A (en) * | 1984-08-13 | 1986-04-22 | Held Wayne L | Chlorinator and method |
| US4693806A (en) * | 1985-09-23 | 1987-09-15 | Tucker Daniel M | Chlorine generator device |
| US4761208A (en) * | 1986-09-29 | 1988-08-02 | Los Alamos Technical Associates, Inc. | Electrolytic method and cell for sterilizing water |
| US5037519A (en) * | 1990-10-01 | 1991-08-06 | Jay W. Hathcock | Electrolytic chlorine generator |
| US5422014A (en) * | 1993-03-18 | 1995-06-06 | Allen; Ross R. | Automatic chemical monitor and control system |
-
1997
- 1997-05-09 CA CA002204941A patent/CA2204941C/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
-
1998
- 1998-09-28 US US09/162,692 patent/US5993669A/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| CA2204941A1 (en) | 1997-11-21 |
| US5993669A (en) | 1999-11-30 |
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